What is Poplin Fabric? The Legendary Origins, Benefits & How It’s Made

What is Poplin Fabric? 

If you’ve ever asked yourself about the meaning of ‘what is poplin fabric‘ then you’re in the right place. You’ve probably, most definitely, worn some variation of poplin, whether it’s 100% cotton poplin or a cotton-poly blend. Whilst traditionally it was primarily used for commonplace attire, it now has a place both in your everyday wardrobe and haute couture fashion. Its popularity is hardly surprising, favoured for its strong, durable nature but soft, lustrous surface. It’s basically a solid, all-rounder fabric that can’t really do any wrong.  

What is Poplin Made Of? 

Poplin fabric is characterised by its distinctive ribbed texture and tightly closed weave. This gives the fabric the lustre that we all love. Traditionally poplin was a plain weave constructed using fine silk warp yarns, filled in with a heavier wool yarn. This is how it gets the classic ribbed texture.

Today, poplin fabric is primarily made from 100% real cotton, making it lightweight but still retaining the strength. Other variations include wool, silk, satin, rayon or a polyblend fabric, but the basic concept remains the same; 2 yarns of different thicknesses in a plain weave. If you like having the best of both worlds, poplin is thin and cool with an easy drape, yet simultaneously sturdy and tough.

What is Poplin Used For? 

Since it was first made, poplin has been a staple fabric for a wide range of uses. Due to the perfect harmony of durability and elegance, it was a popular choice for women’s dresses. However, the 19th century also found it a lovely fabric to use for upholstery. In World War II, both British and US military personnel took a shine to poplin and used it as the main material for their uniforms. It kept soldiers cool when necessary but it was strong enough to endure rough elements.   

These unique properties have helped make poplin a comfortable but stylish fabric for all manner of clothing, from shirts and skirts to trousers and jackets. It’s so versatile. The subtle sheen adds a touch of luxury, allowing you to wear it in both casual and formal situations.  

The Difference Between Poplin & Broadcloth 

Often mistaken for the same thing, you might be surprised to know that there is a difference between poplin & broadcloth. This distinction lies in the thickness of the yarns used. Broadcloth is woven in the same way as poplin. However the yarns used are a lot thicker and yield a sturdy fabric with a robust feel. What poplin is, on the other hand, is a fine warp yarn woven with a thicker weft yarn. This results in a strong material but one that is soft to touch.  

The Origins of Poplin Fabric

Poplin has always been incredibly popular. This is not surprising given that it’s soft to touch, durable and has a smooth, lustrous surface. Back in the 15th Century, poplin was used for winter attire, and was made using silk and wool. The actual word ‘poplin’ derives from ‘papelaine’, and is based on the (now obsolete) French papal town of Avignon. 

The fabric was extremely commonplace, and wasn’t deemed luxurious despite being woven with real silk. In Louisa May’s novel ‘Little Women’, two sisters were described as being full of regret for attending a ball in their best poplin dresses, instead of pure silk. 

What is Poplin Fabric Like to Sew With?

Poplin is incredibly easy to work with. Despite being thin, it has a smooth face and holds its shape well. You still may want to stiffen it up beforehand though, as although crisp, it can be quite slippery. 

Embroidering onto poplin is a popular craft too, due to the nature of the weave and how forgiving this fabric is. You’ll relish in the ease at which you can work with poplin and turn it into something beautiful and long lasting.  

Advantages 

• Durable and strong 
• Cool, lightweight 
• Versatile 
• Soft to touch 
• Lustrous face 
• Subtle sheen 
• Comfortable 
• Delight to print on 
• Doesn’t wrinkle easy 
• Doesn’t stain easy 
• Water resistant 

Disadvantages 

• Doesn’t lock in heat 
• Too thin for winter 

How Do I Print On Poplin Fabric?

Printing your own poplin fabric has never been easier. Just upload your design, pattern, photo or any other image into our design interface and position it where you want. You can even use our online design tool to increase or reduce the dimensions or repeat the pattern. Check out how easy it is by ordering a test print, and grab yourself a discount on your first fabric order, too.

You now know everything there is to know about this wonderfully versatile poplin fabric. Discover poplin fabrics and other materials in your own swatch pack.